This evening, I am posting a video clip taken during today’s short, ‘Macmillan’ themed ancestry tour.

We visited Castle Sween in Knapdale which is a very early castle, possibly dating from the 11th century. Has been held by both MacDonalds and Campbells but was destroyed by MacColla and his band of mercenaries in 1644 and has remained a ruin ever since.

I always find the Abbey a fascinating building to visit but it does not normally attract high numbers of tourists which is unfortunate because it is a very old site with history dating back to 1163.

The original priory became an Abbey answerable to Rome in 1245 and was dedicated to St. Mary, St. James, St. Mirin and St Milburga.

Paisley Abbey has played a role in Scotland’s turbulent history including Royal power struggles, destruction by fire and collapse of the tower. Following re-roofing and re-building the Abbey was re-dedicated in 1928.

Buried in the Abbey are six High Stewards of Scotland, Marjory Bruce, King Robert II’s wives and King Robert III.

Tucked away in a corner in the 10th century Barochan Cross.

This building is surely the equal of the historic cathedrals in Glasgow and Edinburgh.